Bowsewr,

I'm in the same boat you are as far as starting again in modeling.  I bought my first kit about 3 weeks ago (5 German WW2 figures.)  I, too, have spent a good chunka change for my start up costs. 

I've made the EXACT imperfections you have made - so you're not alone.  It can be a little frustrating.

However, my mindset was this....  I'm going to use this first kit as a "dry run", meaning, I know I'm going to screw some things up, but that's too be expected.  And, I'll just learn as I go. 

It was also kinda intimadating to compare my results with the unbelievable painting skills of the SMA members.  But, some of these guys/gals have been doing this for years...and years...and years. 

Keep your chin up and keep going!  This is a great hobby!